DEBATE over the future of High Royds Hospital is about to start as the public is asked what it wants on the Menston site.

Leeds City Council this week revealed a planning framework for the complex which is due to close next year.

The detailed 57-page document sets out guidelines for would-be developers and will now be subject to an eight-week consultation, including a series of public meetings.

And planning bosses are urging people throughout Wharfedale and Aireborough to have their say.

Councillor Jim McKenna, chairman of the city council's plans west sub-committee, said: "We will be holding public meetings and making copies of the the draft framework available in local libraries.

"People's views and comments will be discussed at a committee meeting later this year."

Members of the Leeds plans west sub-committee this week gave the framework their vote of approval.

It aims give planners the advantage in future negotiations to ensure any development benefits the community while maintaining the key aspects of the 19th century site.

And under the guidelines, the land off the A65 Bradford Road, could be used for a mixture of housing, leisure and offices - as well as the current proposal for a new Wharfedale General Hospital.

Key features of the framework include the conservation of important elements of the listed building, protection of the green belt and Hawksworth Moor special landscape area, and how any development would be phased in.

Copies of the planning framework will be available in local libraries and dates of public meetings will be announced by the council.

l What would you like to see on the High Royds site at Menston? Tell us by writing to the Editor, 8 Wells Road, Ilkley LS29 8JD.

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